Crabbies Grand National 2015: Leighton Aspell rides to successive Aintree wins on Many Clouds

Leighton Aspell became the first jockey to win back-to-back Grand Nationals on different horses for seven decades, after riding Many Clouds to victory at Aintree.

The 33/1 shot outlasted Saint Are, Monbeg Duke and Alvarado after leading for long periods to prevail by two lengths after struggling at the Cheltenham Gold Cup in March, the third classic win for owner Trevor Hemmings.

Aspell, 38, won on board Pineau De Re 12 months ago and clinched victory ahead of the AP McCoy ridden-favourite Shutthebackdoor, who finished fifth after fading in the closing stages.

"That was awesome," he said. "Many Clouds is a tired boy, he gave his all like he always does but what a wonderful ride round. It was all guts.

"We went around the canal turn and AP McCoy was full of running but he pricked his ears and was in front. I could hear a couple of horses but I couldn't see anything and I was hoping for a couple to push us on because it is a lonely place."

Trainer Oliver Sherwood added: "All I wanted was the horse to come back in one piece. Leighton didn't make a mistake. I can not believe it. I thought it was a year too early."